Urban Forests: 2025’s Top Cities for Tree Huggers

How can regular folks — including apartment dwellers — advocate for trees in their area?

Showing their strong preference for well-managed trees and greening around their apartment complex is one option. Different organizations also offer tree giveaway programs and tree planting events that might be available depending on your area.

What are three common ways people unintentionally harm or kill trees?

One common issue is damage to tree roots, either through soil compaction too close to the tree or cutting roots during construction or utility ditching. Oversalting in the winter can also damage trees, as can over-trimming or over-pruning trees.

What are three iconic trees decorating the American landscape that everyone should know?

This is hard because it is so regionally dependent! In the east and midwest, white oak is an iconic species that is hugely important for wildlife and is also economically and culturally important. Maple species, red maple and sugar maple, provide beautiful fall colors and are also quite iconic in landscapes across their range in the eastern U.S.

What advice would you give homeowners looking to resolve a tree-related dispute with their neighbors (e.g., tree branches landing on the other side of the fence)?

While over-pruning can damage trees unintentionally, regular tree maintenance and proper pruning can help avoid this type of conflict. People may also want to carefully consider species and site selection when planting new trees to try to avoid this issue (i.e. smaller ornamentals may be better suited to locations closer to the property edge or under power lines, etc, whereas larger canopy trees should have plenty of room to spread.)

How can regular folks—including apartment dwellers—advocate for trees in their area?

You don’t have to own land to make a difference for trees in your community. One way to help is by voting for local leaders who prioritize urban tree programs and green spaces. You can also get involved by volunteering with community organizations that plant and care for trees in parks, neighborhoods, and other public spaces. Even small efforts, like supporting tree-friendly policies or spreading awareness, can help make your area greener and healthier.

What are three common ways people unintentionally harm or kill trees?

Most tree damage isn’t caused by bad intentions—just a lack of awareness. One big mistake is compacting or damaging the roots, whether by parking cars on them, adding too much heavy soil, or even just constant foot traffic. Construction near trees can also be a problem, as digging and grading can disturb the root system. Another issue is altering the natural water flow, which can drown the tree or leave it struggling for moisture. These stress trees and make them more vulnerable to disease, pests, and decline.

What are three iconic trees decorating the American landscape that everyone should know?

America is home to some truly legendary trees! The coastal redwood takes the title of the tallest tree in the world, towering over 300 feet high. The bristlecone pine is the oldest tree, with some living over 4,000 years. And a personal favorite, the sugar pine, holds the record for the longest pine cone, stretching up to two feet long! These trees are not just impressive, but they also play vital roles in their ecosystems.

What advice would you give homeowners looking to resolve a tree-related dispute with their neighbors?

The best approach to any tree dispute is open and respectful communication. Start by talking with your neighbor to find common ground and work toward a solution together. It also helps to understand local tree ordinances so you know your rights and responsibilities. If your neighbor owns the tree, offering support—whether that’s sharing maintenance costs or helping with cleanup—can go a long way in keeping the conversation positive and productive.

How can regular folks — including apartment dwellers — advocate for trees in their area?

They can demand that city officials establish more public parks and gardens in their cities. People should purchase houses in areas with high tree coverage so that real estate developers feel the importance of the natural environment around their developed sites. People should teach their children about the importance of trees.

What are three common ways people unintentionally harm or kill trees?

People can transport harmful insects and diseases from one area to another area where healthy trees exist. People can convert mixed-species forestlands to a monoculture, which are very susceptible to pests, diseases, and other extreme climate events. Development projects can change the soil and water conditions which can be harmful to existing trees. These projects usually either increase water flow or decrease soil moisture.

What are three iconic trees decorating the American landscape that everyone should know?

They are red maple, loblolly pine, and Douglas fir.

What advice would you give homeowners looking to resolve a tree-related dispute with their neighbors (e.g., tree branches landing on the other side of the fence)?

Rather than going to court, I always encourage both parties to settle it via negotiation. The beneficial party should pay the affected party. The court or any other local authority should encourage a mutual settlement in such cases.Dallas (No. 44) has the most tree maintenance services, 433, followed by San Antonio (No. 48).